Super Eagles likely XI vs Liberia: Ighalo misses out, Chukwueze returns

The three-time African champions will take one step closer to qualifying for Qatar with a win over the Lone Stars on Saturday evening

All eyes will be on the Super Eagles when they take on Liberia at the Stade Ibn Batouta, Tangiers in their penultimate group game in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles could seal their spot in the playoff round with a win, although they will need CAR to take something from their game against Cape Verde.

The major headline ahead of the game is the return of Odion Ighalo. The Al-Shabab striker retired from international football almost three years ago, but he is back in the fold.

And ahead of the game, Soccernet predicts Nigeria’s starting lineup.

In goal, Maduka Okoye will retain his place. William Troost-Ekong and Leon Balogun will be the centre backs while Ola Aina and Jamilu Collins should occupy the fullback roles, despite the return of Zaidu Sanusi.

Wilfred Ndidi returns to the midfield after missing the games against the Central African Republic. Joe Aribo was criticised in the first leg against CAR, but he put in a brilliant performance in the second leg and should slot in easily alongside Ndidi.

Alex Iwobi could take up the attacking midfield role, but Iheanacho is more likely to play in that position, just behind the leading striker, Victor Osimhen.

It means Iwobi may have to operate from the wings, with Samuel Chukwueze, back in the squad for the first time since March, taking up the other side of the wing.

Nigeria’s likely XI: Okoye, Aina, Ekong, Balogun, Collins, Ndidi, Aribo, Iheanacho, Iwobi, Chukwueze, Osimhen.